The family was in the outdoor area of Bruster's Real Ice Cream, where there are picnic tables. "She was only missing about 5 to 10 minutes but by the time her dad found her in the pit, she was unresponsive".

Upon their arrival, EAMC EMS rushed the child to East Alabama Medical Center.

Local police who have ruled the child's death an accident told AL.com that video evidence shows the little girl, Sadie Grace Andrews, playing with two of her siblings at Bruster's Real Ice Cream on East University Drive, when she fell through a lid covering a six-foot deep grease pit on the property.

Police do not suspect foul play in Sadie's death, which occurred in the early afternoon on Saturday, according to WRBL.

The case will be presented to a Lee County grand jury for disposition.

The owners of the Bruster's Ice Cream shop posted a statement on Facebook saying the Andrews' were regular customers and they are "truly heartbroken".

A crowdfunding page has so far raised more than $13,000 (US) to help cover Sadie's funeral expenses.

The girl was known for her friendly nature and was quick to introduce herself to new people, her mother Corrie Andrews said.

"We know without a shadow of a doubt, our baby is with Jesus", Andrews said. Our thoughts also are with our young crewmember who tried to revive the child. She just loved people and it didn't matter what they did'.

The statement continued: "The entire Bruster's family is horribly saddened by this tragic accident. The City of Auburn encourages the Auburn community to respect the family's need for privacy at this hard time, even as we join with them in mourning this tragic loss". At 3 years old, there's no preconceived notions. She didn't see the bad.